American Idol finalist Jennifer Hudson has landed the much-sought-after starring role of Effie in the movie version of Dreamgirls. "It is the ultimate, the greatest role in theater history," Hudson told USA Today. "Why me? I'm still in shock. I just got to Los Angeles Monday night and started rehearsals yesterday." She'll join castmates Beyoncé Knowles, Jamie Foxx and Eddie Murphy. Idol winner Fantasia Barrino was considered a front-runner for the role, but Hudson prevailed. "We talked about it," director and writer Bill Condon said of casting Fantasia. "She has a lot of fans, including me. She is an amazing human being and has an abundance of talent. No one lost. Someone just emerged who was perfect."